Hello, my name is Bjorn Hessen-Schmidt. I am originally from Palo Alto, California and I attended Cornell University where I graduated Phi Beta Kappa with degrees in both Mathematics and Economics. I am currently an Associate at Siris Capital Group and was previously a Senior Investment Banking Analyst within Citi’s Global Industrials Group. In addition to Investment Banking at Citi, my internship experience also includes bioinformatics research at Stanford University and data science at Two Six Capital.

My name is Ganggas Harjianto and I am a private equity investor at NewSpring Capital in the Philadelphia area. Prior to this role, I was a part of the lower middle market strategy at Main Street Capital Corporation in Houston and the leveraged finance group at SunTrust Robinson Humphrey (now Truist). I grew up in northern Delaware in a middle-class, immigrant household and attended the University of Delaware for undergrad, where I graduated with a degree in finance in 2017. Coming from a “non-core” / state school background, recruiting for my first role was a monumental challenge that taught me the power of forming and developing strong networks, and I can wholeheartedly say that I would not be where I am today without the help offered by those along the way. Finance is such an interesting field that allows you to test the limits of your knowledge, drive decision-making, and meet and interact with successful executives and peers from all walks of life, and as such, I am always eager to pay it forward and help out where I can. Feel free to reach out to me if you would like to learn more about (i) recruiting from a “non-core” background or (ii) the nuances of lower middle market private equity!

I’m an analyst at Houlihan Lokey in the firm’s Portfolio Valuation group, where we help alternative investment managers assess the fair value of illiquid debt and equity holdings. Our team provides independent valuations that enhance transparency across private credit, private equity, and structured products, serving hedge funds, PE firms, and business development companies.

I first joined Houlihan Lokey as a summer analyst and continued part-time through my senior year at Touro University, where I earned my B.S. in Finance. During that time, I contributed to several private-credit research initiatives focused on valuation trends and credit-market dynamics—an experience that strengthened both my technical and analytical foundation.

I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who guided me early in my finance career, and their influence inspired me to give back. I’m excited to support students and young professionals navigating the industry, sharing insights from someone who was in their shoes not long ago and is now working in the analyst role.

I am an Associate within H.I.G. Capital’s Infrastructure Private Equity fund in New York City. Prior to my current role, I was an Investment Banking Analyst within Jefferies’ Consumer & Retail Group in Charlotte, NC. I received my B.S., Summa Cum Laude, in Finance from Wake Forest University in Winston Salem, North Carolina. I initially became interested in pursuing a career in finance after speaking with numerous mentors, which included family members, professors, upperclassmen, and folks at various firms that I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to network with across many years leading up to my graduation from Wake Forest. These individuals held roles across the financial industry ranging from Investment Banking to Wealth Management to Private Equity, along with many others, all of which provided me with valuable insight into my decision-making process. I developed a passion for this industry due to the fact that it provided me with an opportunity to be people / client-facing, work within a fast-paced environment where you are encouraged to challenge yourself by making personal judgment calls, gain a vital skillset for long-term career optionality whether that be in finance or another industry, and to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Growing up, I spent a lot of time working with fundraisers and contributing to various charitable initiatives. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to spend countless years getting to know individuals from diverse backgrounds and these experiences have instilled the passion in me to help provide the appropriate resources and guidance for others to accomplish their goals. Just as I was fortunate enough to have mentors guide me down the path that led me to where I am, I strive to be that motivator/adviser in the lives of many others. Having started my career in Charlotte, NC in Consumer & Retail IB and switching to NYC to work within the Infrastructure sector in PE, I can provide valuable insight for those deciding between different cities or sectors as well as those considering a geographical or sector-focus transition.

Originally from Bangladesh, I've lived across Kuwait, China, and Kenya before moving to the United States for college. As an international student, I understand firsthand the unique challenges of breaking into high finance in the U.S. - from navigating visa constraints to building networks from scratch.

I'm currently a trader (Sales & Trading) in the Structured Products desk at Academy Securities. My path here included internships across Consulting, M&A Advisory, Venture Capital, and Investment Banking advisory within Convertible Bonds space. While this may seem scattered, these experiences were invaluable in helping me understand where I truly belonged. I'm passionate about helping students discover their own fit within finance.

Pro Forma Futures were very crucial in my own journey - the mentors provided direct, actionable guidance and importantly feedback that made all the difference. Many of them I'm now fortunate to call my friends. I'm excited to pay that kindness forward.

Feel free to reach out at Taqiulghani@gmail.com and we'll find a time to connect.

Hi, my name is Giorgio Gayleard! I am currently an investment banking associate with KPMG Corporate Finance, advising on sell-side M&A transactions of middle market companies primarily in the Industrials and GovCon spaces. I previously worked at Tower Partners, an industry-agnostic lower middle market investment bank that advises on both sell-side and buy-side engagements. Prior to Tower, I interned with SC&H Capital on their sell-side M&A team. I attended Loyola University Maryland and graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2023 with a B.B.A. in Finance and Economics. I was also a member of the Varsity men's soccer team! After graduating from Loyola, I continued my education at Dickinson College while participating on the soccer team there too. After school, I began working at Tower Partners and joined the KPMG team about a year later. I pursued a career in finance, but more specifically investment banking, because I wanted to work in a stimulating high-growth environment where I could learn a lot at a fast pace. I find fulfillment in challenges and the financial services industry is the perfect place to be for such. I am more than happy to discuss the industry, my career thus far, and provide advice for those who want to learn or, simply, chat! Being a first-generation Hispanic college graduate, I am extremely willing to help those with untraditional backgrounds for investment banking in search of guidance.

My name is Dev Gandhi and I am currently an investment banking analyst in the consumer & retail group at Santander in New York. I graduated from Fordham University in May 2023 and majored in finance with a minor in economics. My interest in finance was sparked after joining multiple finance clubs on campus and speaking with professionals in the field. I was lucky enough to have multiple finance internships during my years in college, some of which I attained through cold emailing. These experiences led me to pursue investment banking late in my sophomore year. Without the guidance of my mentors, I would not have been able to navigate the recruiting process and I would love to do the same for others. Please feel free to reach out as I am more than happy to discuss the recruitment process and help on the journey at any stage.

My name is Sophie Fries, and I am a current Summer Analyst in the Financial Services Investment Banking Group at Piper Sandler. I am a rising senior at Washington University in St. Louis, where I study Finance and Political Science with a minor in American Culture Studies. Prior to my summer at Piper Sandler, I was a Credit Risk Summer Analyst at Goldman Sachs in Salt Lake City, UT. I am pursuing a career in Investment Banking because I believe it provides a strong foundational knowledge of finance and expands the breadth of my technical skillset. As a woman and a candidate from a non-target school, I understand the challenges that arise with investment banking recruiting and would love the opportunity to help you navigate your path!

I am an investment banking analyst based in New York working at Deutsche Bank as part of the Strategic Equity Transactions Group within capital markets. I graduated from Loyola University Maryland in 2021 with a double mayor in finance and marketing in addition to a minor in entrepreneurship. I pursued a career in finance because I wanted to work in a challenging environment where I would be able to develop professionally while seeing the real-world impact of my work. As a Dominican citizen with limited work authorization, I had a unique recruiting experience pursuing opportunities in the United States. Through this, I learned a lot about the challenges that come with investment banking recruiting. I would be happy to share everything I learned throughout my recruiting process and help in any way I can. Feel free to reach out if you are interested in having a chat!

My name is Will Fergesen and I’m an Investment Banking Analyst in Piper Sandler’s consumer coverage group in Minneapolis, MN. I graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a BBA in Finance a year early in May 2023 and completed my Summer Analyst program that summer following. More than happy to answer any and all questions regarding IB and the recruiting process. I hope I can provide specific insight on navigating non-traditional graduation timelines and recruiting at a non-target school.

I am currently in the BizOps and Strategy team at Handshake, a late-stage tech unicorn. Before moving into tech, I spent the first five years in TMT investment banking at Moelis, Jefferies, and Nomura, and in corporate development. I started my career in finance because I wanted to build a solid foundation in financial analysis, and develop a skill set in providing data-driven insights that will impact a whole organization. I made my switch into tech to get more hands-on operational experience and implement the strategies and recommendations I've formulated. Outside of work, I am an avid poker player, traveler, and self-described foodie. Happy to chat about anything investment banking related (internships, full-time, lateraling, etc.) or transitioning from finance to big tech.

My name is Alec Feng and I am currently a Private Equity Associate at Marlin Equity Partners in Los Angeles, where I focus on investing in middle market software businesses. Prior to joining Marlin, I worked at William Blair as an Investment Banking Analyst for two years in the Technology group in Chicago. I am originally from Manhattan Beach, California, and I graduated from Michigan State in 2022 with a B.A. in Finance. I am happy to chat about investment banking & private equity recruiting, interviewing, and career paths in general.

Hi, my name is Josh Elman and I’m currently a Vice President at Invesco in the Private Credit group on the Direct Lending team. Prior to joining Invesco in 2025, I worked at Arrowhead Investment Management investing in both debt and equity co-invest. I started my career as an investment banking analyst in the Global Industrials Group at Jefferies in New York City, primarily focused on the Automotive and Building Products sectors. Originally from Bergen County, NJ, I attended Vanderbilt University where I majored in Economics. I was interested in middle market investment banking and private credit due to the opportunity to advise and support growing American businesses as well as the ability to work with highly talented, smart, and motivated colleagues. I still remember my endless questions and second guessing while recruiting for IB and buyside roles. There were so many people who helped me along the way – I’d love to pay it forward and help you. I’m happy to answer ALL questions as well as provide interview advice. I can also provide insights on working at a firm with <10 people. If you'd like to chat about my experiences or ask me questions, don’t hesitate to reach out!

My name is Andrew Eginton, and I am currently a Senior Associate at KPMG within its Deal Advisory practice. I graduated cum laude from the University of Notre Dame in 2022 with a B.B.A. in Accountancy. During my undergraduate years, I interned at AMETEK, a global electronic instrument and electromechanical device company, where I gained experience in Audit, Investor Relations, and Corporate Development over three summers. With my accounting background, I became a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA), though I always had a strong interest in pursing a career in finance. Upon graduation, I began my career in the Financial Due Diligence group at KPMG’s Boston office, and later transferred to New York City while continuing in the same division. My goal in pursuing a finance career has been to acquire the entrepreneurial skills needed to run a business. Combining a technical background to understand financial drivers with hands-on experience working with business founders and investors, I aim to be well-prepared for any business opportunities or challenges that may come my way. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to receive guidance from several mentors and am eager to pay it forward. Feel free to reach out if you are interested in learning about alternative routes in finance outside of Investment Banking or Private Equity. I am also open to discussing career paths related to accounting and sharing my personal experiences.

Hi, My name is Tim Eber and I am currently an Acquisition Finance analyst at Truist Securities in Atlanta, Georgia. I graduated from the University of Georgia in December 2018 with a double major in Finance and Management Information Systems and I chose to pursue a career in finance for a few key reasons: the chance to surround myself and work with curious, intelligent, and high-caliber people, the significant responsibility and accountability assigned to juniors, and the challenge to think critically in order to work through complex problems. Since getting into banking, I have witnessed the recruiting process take place earlier each year, and it appears to me that more and more driven, intelligent, and motivated candidates who do not have access to resources and information are being left out of the process. If you are someone who feels that you might have an interest in a career in banking or finance but do not know where to begin or simply want to learn more about what life in banking may look like, I would be happy to be a resource to you and can provide advice from personal experience surrounding how to approach getting up the learning curve, recruiting, and the interview process.

Hi. My name is Joey Duffy and I am an investment banking analyst at BMO Capital Markets in New York. I grew up in Boston, MA, and studied finance, economics, and international business at Villanova University. I pursued a career in finance because I find the subject matter inherently interesting and I value the opportunity to take on significant responsibility in a team-based environment. At BMO I’m in the Healthcare group, covering Healthcare Services, Life Sciences, and Healthcare IT. I’m happy to speak with anyone interested in Investment Banking, BMO, or the Healthcare industry, and we can cover school, internships, recruiting, or interviews. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, or if you just want to talk about Boston sports.

Hi, everyone. My name is Nicole D’Onofrio – I am a private equity investor with Astira Capital Partners in Boston, MA. Astira was founded in 2023 as a software and tech-enabled services private equity firm. Prior to joining Astira, I was an M&A Associate and Analyst with Harris Williams where I spent time across E&P, technology, and business services.  

I was inspired to start my career in investment banking after attending the Harris Williams Women’s Leadership Summit during my sophomore year of college. I pursued internships with Harris Williams, BB&T Capital Markets, and EisnerAmper prior to accepting a full-time role with Harris Williams upon graduating from the University of Richmond. I graduated with a dual degree in International Business and Italian Studies.

My areas of expertise include recruiting from non-traditional majors, leveraging diversity programs, evaluating opportunities across geographies, and private equity pivots among other topics. I have found my career to be incredibly exciting and rewarding – so I look forward to connecting and supporting you all in your next steps!

Hi, my name is Stephanie Michas, and I currently work as a Credit and Asset Management Financial Analyst at Trimont Real Estate Advisers in London. Prior to joining Trimont, I was a Sales and Trading Analyst at BNP Paribas in New York. I graduated from Colgate University in 2019 with a B.A. in Economics and a minor in Studio Art. I chose to work in Finance after school because growing up I was always interested in the markets. I would hear the hype around upcoming IPOs or share buybacks, and found it fascinating. After relocating to the UK I pivoted within the industry, now working within Commercial Real Estate Credit and Asset Management, after looking for work with more tangibility, which I’ve found in Commercial Real Estate. As a woman coming from a small Liberal Arts school, I can help you navigate the application and interview process. I can also help you to think about where in finance you can see yourself succeeding - as someone who has moved within the industry, I can help you think about where your skillset lies, and how to best utilize it. I have been lucky to have fantastic mentors thus far in my career, and hope that I can provide that same level of mentorship on to others.

My name is James Chisholm, I am a 2018 graduate from the University of Richmond and now pursuing my MBA at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth. Before business school, I spent five years at KPMG across audit, data & analytics, and Deal Advisory & Strategy, supporting M&A transactions and complex financial analyses for clients across industries. I didn’t initially know strategy consulting was an option for me. I started my career in accounting and audit, but over time realized I was most energized when I could step back, work across industries, and help clients make value-add decisions. Consulting stood out because it offered that breadth, impact, and problem-solving orientation in a way traditional professional services often do not. I’m passionate about helping people from nontraditional or “late-to-the-game” backgrounds understand what consulting really is, how it differs from roles like audit or accounting, and how to best prepare for interviews. Please reach out if I can help you in any way!

I am a Private Equity Senior Associate at Ancient. Previously, I was an investment banking analyst in the Media and Communications group at Morgan Stanley and was previously an investment banking analyst in the TMT group at UBS. I graduated from the University of Richmond in 2020 with a BA in Business Administration with concentrations in finance and accounting. I decided to pursue a career in finance, and more specifically in investment banking, after many discussions with helpful mentors and peers. If you would like to discuss the recruitment process, networking, investment banking or different career paths in finance, please reach out!